Methane Emission in Australia

A new report by the Climate Council reveals that methane levels are at their highest in 800,000 years, significantly contributing to global warming and extreme weather events. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is responsible for 25-30% of warming since pre-industrial times and is primarily emitted from agriculture and fossil fuel extraction in Australia, which produces about four million tonnes annually. Despite committing to the Global Methane Pledge to cut emissions by 30% by 2030, Australia lacks a concrete national strategy for achieving this goal and may be under-reporting emissions from coal and gas by up to 60%. Researchers warn that current agricultural practices aimed at reducing methane may unintentionally increase nitrous oxide emissions, complicating climate mitigation efforts. Effective actions are needed now to set clear targets and hold industries accountable to combat methane emissions and their climate impacts effectively.